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Assassination Plot Investigation Launched Against Costa Rican President

1/15/2026

Summary

Torres Investigates Assassination Plot

Jorge Torres, Costa Rica's national security chief, announced an investigation into an assassination plot against President Rodrigo Chaves.
Authorities received a tip from a woman alleging payments to a hitman.
Security for Chaves is being increased as he campaigns as a tough-on-crime leader.
Chaves will oversee the cornerstone ceremony for a new 'mega-prison' modeled after a facility in El Salvador where President Nayib Bukele is known for controversial security measures.

Summary

Chaves Faces Assassination Plot

Costa Rica's government investigates an alleged assassination plot against President Rodrigo Chaves, disclosed by Jorge Torres.
A female suspect is under scrutiny, with no evidence linking the plot to February 1 elections.
Chaves, barred from a second term, endorsed Laura Fernández, who leads polls with a tough-on-crime platform.
The investigation coincides with Nayib Bukele, President of El Salvador, visiting to inaugurate a new prison modeled after his controversial facility.

History

Historical Context

President William McKinley was assassinated by anarchist Leon Czolgosz on September 6, 1901, during a public reception at the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York. This event led to a significant overhaul of presidential security, with the Secret Service officially tasked with protection in 1906. Today, similar fears of political violence resurface as Costa Rica's President Rodrigo Chaves faces an assassination plot investigation.

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Torres Investigates Assassination Plot

Jorge Torres, Costa Rica's national security chief, announced an investigation into an assassination plot against President Rodrigo Chaves.
Authorities received a tip from a woman alleging payments to a hitman.
Security for Chaves is being increased as he campaigns as a tough-on-crime leader.
Chaves will oversee the cornerstone ceremony for a new 'mega-prison' modeled after a facility in El Salvador where President Nayib Bukele is known for controversial security measures.

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